Simvastatin Tablets

Simvastatin is a treatment for high cholesterol. It is also sold under the brand names Zocor and Simvador in the UK. Simvastatin belongs to the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) class of medications which reduce cholesterol build-up in the arteries.

You may be prescribed simvastatin in 20 mg, 40 mg or 80 mg tablets. Simvastatin tablets are also available in a lower 10 mg strength from pharmacies. The active ingredient of simvastatin is simvastatin. There are also inactive ingredients including lactose monohydrate.

Simvastatin tablets are used to lower cholesterol in people with high blood cholesterol. Your doctor may prescribe simvastatin if you have a family history of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, as these conditions are linked to high cholesterol.

Typically, simvastatin will be able to reduce your cholesterol levels within four weeks. Most people with high cholesterol do not have any symptoms, so if you have been prescribed simvastatin tablets, you should continue to take them even if you feel well. Simvastatin will usually be prescribed alongside lifestyle recommendations such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, which can also help to lower cholesterol.

Simvastatin belongs to the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) group of medications. It works by slowing the cholesterol production in the body, decreasing the amount of cholesterol that builds up on artery walls. This build-up could potentially block blood flow to the heart and brain, as well as other parts of the body.

You can drink alcohol while you are taking simvastatin, but drinking a lot while taking the medication could increase the chances of liver- and muscle-related side effects. If you do have high cholesterol, you have probably been advised not to consume excessive amounts of alcohol anyway. If you are a heavy drinker, you should let your doctor know before starting to take simvastatin tablets, as they may offer some recommendations or wish to monitor your liver function.

Simvastatin and atorvastatin (also sold under the brand name Lipitor in the UK) are both in the statin class of medication, which work to lower cholesterol levels by slowing cholesterol production. You can find atorvastatin in the same 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg and 80 mg that simvastatin comes in. The normal adult dosage – between 10 mg to 40 mg - is also similar, with 80 mg being prescribed for people with very high cholesterol levels. Simvastatin and atorvastatin share some potential side effects, including muscle pain, fatigue and upset stomach.

Atorvastatin may be more suitable than simvastatin for people with kidney disease. That’s because the highest dosage of simvastatin (80 mg, once per day) may slow the kidneys. Whether simvastatin or atorvastatin is the best medication for you may depend on several factors, including other medications you may be taking and your individual medical history.

Pravastatin, also available under the brand name Pravachol in the UK, is another statin that is used to lower cholesterol levels. It works in the same way as simvastatin and is available in the same strengths - 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg and 80 mg tablets. Simvastatin and pravastatin share potential side effects including muscle pain and headache.

Compared to simvastatin, pravastatin is safer for your liver and kidneys, meaning it may be more suitable than simvastatin for people with liver or kidney disease, especially when taking the highest dose (80 mg). Which medication is best for you will depend on various factors, including your medical history and any other medications you are taking.

Users of simvastatin tablets have reported online that the medication was successful in reducing their cholesterol levels. Reviewers – including those taking lower strength 10 mg tablets - have expressed their satisfaction that simvastatin has allowed them to bring their cholesterol levels down to a normal range. Some users said that after simvastatin had lowered their cholesterol levels, they stopped taking the medication and focused on weight loss through exercise and a healthy diet to limit their cholesterol levels. Among the side effects reported are muscle pain, cramps and weakness.

Simvastatin is not available over the counter, you will need a prescription from a medical professional. Your doctor will need to assess your suitability for simvastatin, before issuing your prescription.

Why not purchase simvastatin tablets online at Cloud Pharmacy, and save yourself time? After completing a short consultation for simvastatin, our pharmacists will need to review it. Once approved, we can issue your prescription and send the medication to your UK address via our next-day delivery service.